Connect with Us

Centerstage knocking on Ebeneezer's door

The Federal Way companys new adaptation of A Christmas Carol will debut Nov. 19 and continue through nearly mid-December at Knutzen Family Theater.

The production will include a cast of 22 and new arrangements of 18 traditional carols, helping tell the classic story of crotchety, cold-hearted Scrooge, whose Christmas Eve slumber is interrupted by three ghosts. They help him understand the folly of his ways and make him over into a new man as Christmas Day dawns.

The production is the largest in Centerstages 27-year history, said artistic director Alan Bryce, who penned the adaptation.

Were presenting a special holiday production for our community, Bryce said, adding the cast is an even blend of professionals with children and teenagers from our area.

The music is arranged and directed by Dawn Clement, Young American Jazz Musician of the Year. The set was designed by Craig Wollam, head of Seattle Scenic Studios, and choreography is by Allison Schumacher.

Bryce noted Dickens beloved fairy tale is an escape into one of the riddles of the human spirit. It is a simple meditation on what it is to be human.

Bryce said his selection of the perennial holiday entertainment was based on financial considerations of Centerstage, which canceled its fall production of Nunsense in order to marshal resources and concentrate on its business structure.

Bearing in mind our shaky financial status, we needed a sure-fire success this Christmas to secure the rest of the season, he said. But as I worked on the adaptation of a story I already knew well, I was struck by the extraordinary depth and subtlety of the original. It is a masterpiece not only because of the simple power of the tale of Scrooges redemption, but also because of the ecumenical appeal of its message of the perils of capitalism unchecked by compassion  and thus, still very relevant today.

We encourage an open exchange of ideas on this story's topic, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. Personal attacks, inappropriate language, and off-topic comments may be removed, and comment privileges revoked, per our Terms of Use. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.